Breast Lift Provides Boost to Uplift Breasts

Less extensive than a full breast augmentation but still a very effective way to boost sagging breasts, a breast lift, or mastopexy, can reshape and lift the breasts. This procedure is especially popular with women whose breasts have sagged due to aging, weight loss or pregnancy, child birth and breast feeding.

Breast Lift procedures are often done in combination with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty), breast augmentation, and even facial rejuvenation procedures such as rhinoplasty, brow lifts, blepharoplasty and more. Be sure to discuss all of your options with a board certified plastic surgeon before moving forward with a final decision.

A breast lift can be performed along with a breast augmentation or on its own and includes two different options depending on an individual's needs and preferences:

*The Benelli Breast Lift or Donut Mastopexy Breast Lift is best suited for women who are interested in a small to moderate lift in their breasts. During this procedure, the cosmetic surgeon removes excess skin and tightens up the tissue around the breasts. This creates a new contour and shape as well as a more youthful look.

*The Full Mastopexy Breast Lift, on the other hand, is for those interested in a larger boost. The procedure essentially works the same, however, the cosmetic surgeon will make further incisions around the breasts while performing the lift, which entails some additional scarring and a longer period of recovery.

The actual procedure can take anywhere from two to four hours and can be performed in an office surgical center or a hospital, depending on the cosmetic surgeon and the procedure itself. If you are thinking about a breast lift or a breast augmentation, you should meet with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who specializes in these procedures. He or she can discuss all the details of the surgery as well as how to prepare for the procedure and what will be expected after the breast lift. In addition, you can ask questions about costs, risks, options and more. It's always a good idea to view before-and-after photos from previous patients as well as client recommendations.

If you hope to have more kids or aren't finished breast feeding, it makes sense to wait to have a breast lift since your breasts can stretch and change during this time. While the breast lift provides impressive results, it isn't permanent and age can continue to take a toll on the breasts, so it's also important to have realistic expectations about a breast lift surgery.

After a breast lift, patients will likely be swollen, sore and bruised for several days to a week or more; they must also wear a special surgical bra which helps promote healing. Those who have the procedure generally return to work in about a week, but must avoid intense activity and heavy lifting for several weeks.

All in all, a breast lift is a less invasive way of giving your breasts a youthful lift and creating the shape of your dreams.